Knowledge, Attitudes and Perceptions Affecting Pesticide Use Behavior among Rice Farmers in Bang Pla Ma District, Suphan Buri Province

Authors

  • nopadol thongaram Sirindhorn College of Public Health Suphanburi https://orcid.org/0009-0003-1055-4533
  • Sutthisak Surirak Sirindhorn College of Public Health Suphanburi Province, Faculty of Public Health and Allied Health Sciences, Praboromarajchanok Institute, Nonthaburi
  • Kanokporn Somporn College of Allied Health Sciences, Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok, Thailand

Keywords:

pesticide use behaviors, farmers, knowledge, perceptions, attitudes

Abstract

Pesticides are widely used in the agricultural sector, posing risks to both health and the environment. Thailand ranks as the 18th largest consumer of pesticides globally, raising concerns about farmers' health and environmental safety. This research employed a mixed-method approach. The quantitative sample consisted of 225 participants selected through multi-stage random sampling, using questionnaires regarding knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and behaviors related to pesticide use. The qualitative study involved semi-structured in-depth interviews with 15 farmers to examine motivations and barriers influencing pesticide usage. Research results indicated that farmers demonstrated high-level pesticide usage behaviors (M=126.77, SD=14.72), high knowledge (M=14.06, SD=0.97), and high perceptions (M=83.92, SD=7.97), while maintaining moderate attitudes (M=37.43, SD=4.18). Perception showed a moderate positive correlation with behavior (r=.404, p<.01), attitude demonstrated a low positive correlation (r=.249, p<.01), and knowledge exhibited a low negative correlation (r=-.132, p<.05). Regression analysis revealed that these factors explained 22.2% of behavior variance (R²=0.222, p<.001), with perception having the strongest influence (β=.363), followed by attitude (β=.206), while knowledge had a negative influence (β=-.185). Qualitative findings emphasized that economic constraints, health concerns, inconsistent safety practices, and limited government support were key factors. Farmers prioritized crop yield compensation over long-term safety, despite acknowledging the risks. Based on these findings, improving perceptions and attitudes toward pesticide safety is more important than merely increasing knowledge. Promoting safe pesticide use should integrate and support incentives to motivate farmers. Practical training and alternative pest control strategies should be utilized to promote safer practices among farmers.

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Published

2025-04-24